How to get to Mobetsu

A journey to Monbetsu, situated on the rugged yet beautiful coast of the Sea of Okhotsk in Japan, promises an encounter with unique northern nature. You can reach this city in various ways, choosing between the speed of air travel and the scenic beauty of land routes. Whether you prefer a plane or a car trip, a visit to Monbetsu will become an unforgettable part of your exploration of Hokkaido.

The fastest way to reach the destination is a flight to Monbetsu Airport (MBE), which receives daily flights from Tokyo and provides a direct link to the region. The airport is located close to the city limits, making arrival as comfortable as possible for tourists.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can use flights to the neighbouring Asahikawa (AKJ), located 103 km away. Airports in the cities of Nakashibetsu and Obihiro can also serve as alternative entry points, though the journey from them will require a longer ground transfer.

Direct rail service to the city of Monbetsu is unavailable, as the railway here has been closed and the station is no longer functional. Travellers are advised to take a train to major transport hubs of the Japan network located nearby.

The nearest convenient stations are terminals in the cities of Asahikawa and Obihiro. From these points, you can comfortably continue your journey by transferring to an intercity bus or renting a car for the trip to the coast.

Bus routes connect Monbetsu with key cities in Hokkaido, offering a reliable way to reach the coast. The most popular trips depart from the transport terminals of the city of Asahikawa, allowing you to cover the distance to your destination with comfort and at a reasonable price.

There are also travel options from the direction of the city of Obihiro. A bus trip along the roads of Japan is an excellent opportunity to enjoy views of northern nature without being distracted by driving.

Travelling by car ensures maximum route flexibility. The fastest path lies from the city of Asahikawa: the distance of 137 km can be covered in approximately 2.3 hours, enjoying high-quality roads.

The road from the cities of Nakashibetsu (about 211 km) and Obihiro (about 214 km) will take 3.5–3.6 hours. Considering high taxi tariffs, renting a car in Japan often proves to be a more cost-effective solution for such distances.

Careful preparation for a trip to Monbetsu will help avoid minor inconveniences and allow you to fully focus on the beauty of northern nature and local culture.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. Winters here are harsh and snowy, so be sure to bring thermal wear, a warm windproof jacket, and non-slip footwear. In summer, the weather is mild, but a light jacket is useful.
2. Transport. Since trains do not run here, renting a car is the best way to move around and explore the surroundings at your own pace.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Japanese Yen. Cards are not accepted everywhere in remote areas, so always carry a sufficient amount of cash.
4. Health. Medical care is high quality but expensive. Having medical insurance is mandatory. Also, bring a personal first aid kit if you plan trips into nature.
5. Language. Away from large metropolises, English is not widely spoken. It is recommended to install a translation app on your smartphone.
6. Etiquette. Be polite and punctual. When entering traditional inns (ryokans) or private homes, be sure to remove your shoes, as is the custom.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave tips in restaurants and taxis — in Japan this is not customary and may embarrass the staff.
8. Useful Tip. Be sure to try local seafood, especially the crabs for which this region of the Sea of Okhotsk is famous.

Following these simple recommendations will make your journey through the north of the country comfortable, safe, and rich in pleasant impressions.